Innholder Graduates Spring Conference theme announced

‘AI and EI; our Hospitality Superpower, has been announced as the theme for the upcoming Innholder Graduates & Scholars Spring Conference, taking place 9 March 2026 and Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel.

With a line up of incredible speakers, the day will delve into the world of both AI and EI, exploring how both can work in conjunction to elevate the guest experience and set you apart from the competition. The day will also provide plenty of opportunity for networking and collaboration with peers and industry experts, all while gaining valuable insights to take your business to the next level.

The agenda for the day is as follows:

09:00 - 10:00 – Arrival with tea and coffee  

10:00 - 10:15 - Introduction and opening remarks from Damien Martin MIH IG IS, Chair of the Innholder Graduates Committee

10:15 - 11:00 - Catalyst Consulting Subject: How to use AI in your business

11:00 - 11:30 - Morning break with tea and coffee

11:30 - 12:15 – Hospitality Update from Kate Nicholls OBE, Chair of UKHospitality

12:15 - 12:30 - Institute of Hospitality Update from Robert Richardson, CEO of the Institute of Hospitality

12:30 - 13:30 - Lunch and networking

13:30 - 14:15 - Guided tasting From Taittinger and Hatch Mansfield

14:15 - 15:15 - Panel Discussion, AI and EI in our Businesses, with Raul Deflorian IG, Learning & Development Manager at Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts, Veryan Palmer MI IS, Executive Board Director at The Headland Hotel & Spa, Harry Fielder, CEO at Umi Digital

15:15 - 15:30 – Break with tea and coffee

15:30 - 16:15 - Guest Speaker, Hilary Cooke, Principal Owner at Merlin Business Consultancy

16:15 - 16:30 - Closing remarks from Damien Martin MIH IG IS, Chair of the Innholder Graduates Committee

Innholder Scholars and Graduates will receive an invitation to attend via email. A safari supper will also take place the evening before. For those wishing to attend, please follow the link here to book.